So why Romanian wine?
The answer lies in its unrivalled blend of history, innovation, and sheer passion for the craft. With a winemaking legacy spanning over 4000 years, Romania has established itself as a powerhouse in the global wine industry.
In the 7th century BC, the people who lived in the region of modern-day Romania already knew how to make wine.
At the heart of Romanian winemaking lies a deep-rooted historical tradition. Dating back over four millennia, Romania has a winemaking heritage that rivals some of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world. From the ancient Dacians to the Romans, wine has been an integral part of Romanian culture for centuries, weaving its way into the fabric of everyday life.
Despite its relatively small size, Romania punches well above its weight in the world of wine production. Ranked among the top 10 wine producers globally and sixth among European wine-producing countries, Romania boasts over 180,000 hectares of vineyards and produces over 4.4 million litres of wine annually. With its diverse terroir and favourable climate, Romania offers the perfect conditions for cultivating a wide variety of grape varietals, from indigenous gems to international classics.
Learn more about Romanian Grapes here.
However, Romania's winemaking journey has not always been smooth. The communist period saw a significant downturn in the quality and reputation of Romanian wine, as state control stifled innovation and creativity. Many vineyards fell into disrepair, and traditional winemaking techniques were overshadowed by mass production methods. Yet, despite these setbacks, the resilience of Romania's winemakers prevailed, laying the groundwork for a renaissance in the industry.
Many Romanian traditions and customs are intrinsically linked to wine, from weddings and religious ceremonies to family gatherings and festivals. It's no surprise that almost 70% of the market is represented by self-production, with many households producing their own wine as a form of cultural expression.
Today, Romania's wine industry is experiencing a renaissance, driven by a new wave of entrepreneurs and investors. With both Romanian and international stakeholders recognising the untapped potential of Romanian wine, new businesses are emerging, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques. This fusion of old and new is breathing fresh life into Romania's wine making scene, fostering innovation and creativity at every turn.
As we look to the future, the Romanian wine industry is poised for greatness. With modern vineyards and wineries equipped with state-of-the-art technology, and a wealth of highly qualified viticulturists and oenologists at the helm, Romania is primed to make its mark on the global stage. The market is set, and the only way to go is forward, as Romania continues to redefine what it means to be a world-class wine producer.
Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or a curious newcomer, exploring the world of Romanian wine is an adventure waiting to be savoured.
As sustainability becomes a priority for more and more consumers, wine bars in Belgium are looking to offer eco-friendly options that align with these values. At WineLion, we're excited to introduce you to a collection of organic Romanian wines from Aurelia Vișinescu, a winemaker who not only honours Romania's rich winemaking traditions but also...
Discovering the perfect wine to complement your favourite dishes doesn't require a fancy event or a sommelier's expertise—it's something you can enjoy and experiment with anytime, anywhere.
The answer lies in its unrivalled blend of history, innovation, and sheer passion for the craft. With a winemaking legacy spanning over 4000 years, Romania has established itself as a powerhouse in the global wine industry.
Romania is divided into seven distinct regions. All 7 of Romania's historical regions produce wine. Many countries have wine regions, but there are few wine-producing countries which can say that the entire country is a wine-producing region.
